Mattress Mack, also known as Jim McIngvale, is a household name in Houston. His furniture store, Gallery Furniture, has been a staple in the city for over 40 years. But what many may not know is that Mattress Mack has a unique tradition that sets him apart from other business owners – he sleeps in a tower above his store. It may seem like a bizarre practice, but for Mattress Mack, it's just another way to connect with his customers and show his dedication to his business.1. Mattress Mack: The Rise of a Houston Icon
The tradition of Mattress Mack sleeping in a tower above his store dates back to the early days of Gallery Furniture. In the 1980s, when the store was struggling to stay afloat, Mattress Mack decided to move into a small apartment above the store to save money on rent. In an interview with Houstonia, Mattress Mack recalls, "I was trying to save money, so I moved into the store. I slept on a mattress in the corner and hung my clothes on a pipe. One day, a customer came in and saw me and said, 'Oh, you're sleeping in the store?' And I said, 'Yeah, I'm trying to save some money.' And then it became a thing."2. The Origins of Sleeping in the Tower
Mattress Mack realized that sleeping in the store was not only a way to save money, but it also garnered attention from customers. He started to use it as a marketing tactic, inviting customers to come and see him sleeping in the tower. This unconventional strategy paid off, and Mattress Mack became a local celebrity. People would come to the store just to catch a glimpse of him in his tower. He even started to give tours of his sleeping quarters, which featured a makeshift kitchen and living area.3. A Unique Marketing Strategy
In 2017, Hurricane Harvey devastated the city of Houston, causing widespread flooding and destruction. While many businesses were forced to close, Mattress Mack opened his store as a shelter for those affected by the hurricane. During this time, Mattress Mack continued his tradition of sleeping in the tower, but this time it had a greater purpose. He wanted to show his support for the community and inspire others to help in any way they could.4. Sleeping in the Tower During Hurricane Harvey
For Mattress Mack, sleeping in the tower is more than just a marketing strategy. It's a symbol of his dedication and hard work. He often works long hours and is known for his hands-on approach to running his business. In an industry where many CEOs are detached from the day-to-day operations, Mattress Mack stands out for his commitment to his store and his customers. Sleeping in the tower is just one example of this dedication.5. A Symbol of Dedication and Hard Work
For many Houstonians, Mattress Mack sleeping in the tower has become a symbol of the city's resilience. From natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, Mattress Mack has always been there to support his community. In a city that has faced its fair share of challenges, Mattress Mack and his tower serve as a reminder that Houstonians are strong and will always come together in times of need.6. The Tower as a Reflection of Houston's Resilience
Today, Mattress Mack's tower has become a popular tourist attraction in Houston. People come from all over the country to see the iconic tower and meet Mattress Mack himself. But don't worry, Mattress Mack has upgraded from his mattress on the floor. The tower now features a luxurious bedroom and bathroom, complete with a balcony overlooking the store.7. The Tower Today
As Mattress Mack nears retirement, his legacy in Houston will continue to live on. His unique tradition of sleeping in the tower has become a part of the city's history and has solidified his place as a beloved Houston icon. But even after he retires, it's safe to say that Mattress Mack will always have a special connection to his store and his customers.8. The Legacy of Mattress Mack
Mattress Mack has become more than just a successful business owner in Houston. He has become a source of inspiration and a role model for many. His dedication to his business and his community has taught us valuable lessons, such as the importance of hard work, resilience, and giving back. And let's not forget the lesson of always having a comfortable place to sleep, even if it's in a tower above your store.9. Lessons from Mattress Mack
Mattress Mack's sleeping in the tower may have started as a way to save money, but it has become so much more. It's a symbol of Houston's spirit – resilient, hardworking, and always ready to lend a helping hand. As long as Mattress Mack continues to sleep in the tower, it will serve as a reminder of the city's strength and the legacy of one of its most beloved icons.10. The Tower: A Symbol of Houston's Spirit